As mobile devices like smartphones and tablets get smaller and thinner, the pixel size of image sensors needs to shrink accordingly. However, the miniaturization of pixel size reduces the amount of light entering the pixel, which affects image quality. Toshiba is addressing the challenge of pixel miniaturization with its newest CMOS image sensor.
The miniaturization of pixel size impacts performance of light sensitivity and signal to noise ratio in today’s 1.12 micrometre pixel image sensors. BSI technology helps improve sensitivity, but falls short on elevating image quality. Leveraging its innovation and technology expertise, Toshiba developed its newest CMOS image sensor with BSI and CNR integrated on the sensor to address both low-light sensitivity and SNR. As a result, the Toshiba CMOS image sensor provides approximately 1.5 times higher SNR value[1] than a 1.12 micrometre pixel image sensor with no CNR feature, allowing manufacturers to deliver products with high-quality imagery, even in low-light conditions.